In 2025, the Department of Social Development (DSD) is introducing key changes to the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant application process. These reforms are designed to simplify the system and improve access for low-income South Africans.
If you’ve struggled with past applications or were confused by income questions, you’ll want to know what’s about to change and how to have your say before the 14 April deadline.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the proposed SRD grant amendments, how they affect you, and how to make your voice heard.
Overview
The SRD grant was launched during the COVID-19 crisis as a temporary measure but quickly became a vital support mechanism for millions. As of 2025, the monthly payment still stands at R350, but the application process has been under heavy scrutiny for being overly complex and unfair to some of the most vulnerable groups in society.
The DSD’s proposed amendments aim to remove specific income-related questions from the application form to streamline access.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Name | Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant |
| Key Change Proposed | Remove income-related questions from the application |
| Reason for Change | Improve access and comply with recent court rulings |
| Deadline for Public Input | 14 April 2025 |
| Income Limit | R625 per month |
| Assessment Method | Monthly bank checks by SASSA |
| Administered By | South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) |
| Website | www.sassa.gov.za |
SRD Application
When the SRD grant launched in 2020, it was meant to offer emergency relief. Fast forward to 2025, and unemployment levels remain high. But many South Africans have been denied the grant over minor deposits or informal help from relatives, which are misinterpreted as steady income.
In response, civil rights groups like the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) and #PayTheGrants took the matter to court in 2024. The High Court ruled in early 2025 that the application process was unfair and needed serious revisions.
Judge Leonard Twala’s judgment pushed the government to make the system less exclusionary and more aligned with constitutional values of dignity and fairness.
Change
Here’s a breakdown of what the DSD is proposing:
Current System:
- Applicants must answer detailed income-related questions
- Informal support (like R100 from a family member) could lead to disqualification
- Many get rejected due to misunderstanding or incorrect reporting
Proposed System:
- Remove income-related questions entirely from the form
- Only collect personal info like ID, phone number, and consent for checks
- SASSA will continue monthly automated bank checks to assess eligibility
The goal is to reduce unnecessary rejections and make the application process smoother and more humane.
Means Testing
Even though questions about income may be removed, the SRD grant will still be means-tested. This means that every month, SASSA will check whether your total income exceeds the current threshold of R625.
If your account receives more than R625 in a given month, you could be disqualified—even if the funds are a once-off deposit or a temporary loan.
What This Means
- Your eligibility may change each month based on bank transactions
- A single month of high income could stop your payment temporarily
- The income threshold remains unchanged, despite rising living costs
Advocacy groups are calling for this income cap to be raised to reflect the true cost of living in South Africa, especially in urban centers.
Public Participation
You can help shape the future of the SRD grant by submitting your comments on the proposed changes before the 14 April 2025 deadline.
Submit Your Feedback
- Visit www.dsd.gov.za
- Read the proposed draft amendments
- Share your opinion via email or the submission portal
- Provide personal experiences or suggest further improvements
Public comments help the DSD improve its policy and ensure it works for real people. Every voice counts.
Application Guide
If the changes are approved, applying for the SRD grant in 2025 will be much easier.
Step-by-Step:
- Go to www.sassa.gov.za and select the SRD Grant link
- Register or log in with your ID and phone number
- Provide consent for SASSA to access your bank info
- Complete the simplified form
- Submit your application and wait for confirmation
- Check your status monthly at srd.sassa.gov.za
Who Benefits?
- Fewer confusing questions to answer
- Easier to apply with less chance of errors
- Still need to monitor deposits and stay under the income limit
For Advocacy Groups:
- A legal victory in the fight for a fairer system
- Continuing to push for an increased grant amount and higher income threshold
For Government:
- Lower administrative burden
- Fewer court challenges and complaints
- A step toward a more inclusive welfare policy
Removing income questions is a small change with a big impact. It simplifies the process for applicants, reduces confusion, and helps make the SRD grant more accessible for those who truly need it.
Whether you’re applying or advocating, now is the time to get involved, stay informed, and speak up before 14 April 2025.
FAQs
Is the income question being removed?
Yes, under the 2025 proposal, income questions will be removed from applications.
What is the income limit for the SRD grant?
You must earn less than R625 per month to qualify.
Will SASSA still check bank accounts?
Yes, monthly bank account checks will still determine eligibility.
How do I give feedback on the changes?
Submit comments on www.dsd.gov.za before 14 April 2025.
Can I qualify if I get help from family?
Yes, if your monthly income stays below R625, you can still qualify.
